Joe Woodward would say he’s lucky to be alive. At the age of ten, Joe was diagnosed with Lupus, an auto-immune disease. The Lupus also caused Joe to develop Pulmonary Hypertension. While these diseases limit Joe’s immune and respiratory functions, they do not limit his courage.
A student at Springfield High School, Joe is an active leader among his peers. He is Vice-President of his senior class, as well as the National Honor Society and the Key Club. In addition, Joe is involved in student government and is a staff reporter for the school newspaper. A member of the Future Problem Solvers, Joe also participates in the Beta Club and RISE.
Joe hopes his life inspires other students to achieve their best by demonstrating what you can overcome if you try. He recognizes that if there is no one to lead, there will be no one who will want to follow. Joe says that his keys to success are the support of his parents, friends and teachers, as well as his faith.